35775, Valhermoso Springs, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35775, Valhermoso Springs, Alabama is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.09 percent of the residents in 35775 has some form of health insurance. 41.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.99 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 35775 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 124 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35775. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 32 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,133 health care providers accessible to residents in 35775, Valhermoso Springs, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Valhermoso Springs (35775)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape in Valhermoso Springs, Alabama (ZIP code 35775), necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of primary care, a critical factor in asthma management, alongside specific considerations for asthma-related care. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, acknowledging the limitations of publicly available data and the dynamic nature of healthcare delivery.

The foundation of good asthma management rests on accessible primary care. In Valhermoso Springs, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing monitoring, and effective treatment plans. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) or the Alabama Department of Public Health provides a starting point. However, these figures often represent broader geographic areas and may not accurately reflect the specific situation within 35775. Furthermore, the actual number of practicing PCPs, including those accepting new patients, is a crucial element.

The "Asthma Score" will initially consider the estimated PCP-to-population ratio. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access. However, this is only one piece of the puzzle. The distribution of these physicians within the ZIP code matters. Are the practices concentrated in one area, potentially creating access challenges for residents in other parts of Valhermoso Springs? The physical proximity of primary care practices to residents, especially those with limited transportation options, is a significant factor.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by PCPs is essential. The "Asthma Score" will incorporate an assessment of the practices' asthma management protocols. Do they adhere to the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) guidelines? Do they offer spirometry testing, a key diagnostic tool? Do they provide patient education on asthma triggers, medication use, and self-management techniques? This information, though difficult to obtain definitively, can be gleaned through online reviews, patient testimonials (where available), and publicly available information about the practice's focus areas.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is a key aspect of this analysis. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma care will receive higher scores. This might include practices with dedicated asthma educators, those that actively participate in asthma-related research or community outreach programs, or those that have earned recognition from organizations like the American Lung Association. These practices serve as models for best practices and provide valuable resources for patients.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial consideration. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telehealth, and its impact on asthma management is significant. Telemedicine offers the potential for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. The "Asthma Score" will evaluate the availability of telemedicine services offered by local primary care practices. Practices that embrace telehealth can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, yet they are vital. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The "Asthma Score" will assess the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices or the broader community. Do the practices offer on-site mental health professionals or have established referral pathways to mental health providers? Access to mental health support is an integral part of holistic asthma care.

The "Asthma Score" will also consider the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, within a reasonable distance of Valhermoso Springs. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, specialists are often needed for complex cases or for patients who don't respond to standard treatments. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists directly impact the overall quality of asthma care in the area.

The analysis will incorporate data on the prevalence of asthma within the ZIP code. While precise local data may be unavailable, estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the Alabama Department of Public Health can provide a general indication of the burden of asthma in the community. A higher prevalence of asthma underscores the importance of accessible and high-quality care.

Furthermore, the "Asthma Score" will assess the availability of asthma-related resources within the community. This includes access to pharmacies with readily available asthma medications, support groups for asthma patients, and community education programs on asthma management. These resources empower patients to take control of their condition and improve their overall well-being.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for Valhermoso Springs (35775) will be a composite measure reflecting the availability, accessibility, and quality of asthma-related care. It will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized care and community resources. The final score will provide a valuable snapshot of the asthma care landscape in the area, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Valhermoso Springs and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a dynamic and insightful perspective on healthcare access and distribution, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.